John Berryman's "dreams" are representative of the confusion and disillusionment that Americans are sometimes faced with. Political and economic dilemmas tend to go hand in hand in this country, and the integrity of the American people are at stake. Throughout most of Berryman's work, he repeatedly refers to the pain that either he, an imaginary character named Henry, or his father had gone through. Although all of those connections can be made through reading his biography, there are direct correlations between him and his relationship with the government. Along with most Americans, he questions the true intentions of the people around him, including institutions such as the government. It is an inherent American trait to question things, especially when they directly impact your life. John Berryman's writing is the epitome of the radical American spirit.
Back to the Masterpiece
Home